Traveling the world or living overseas can be thrilling, eye-opening, and endlessly rewarding. But let’s be real: it can also get lonely.
Even if people constantly surround you, that doesn’t mean you’re making real connections. Whether you’re backpacking through Southeast Asia, teaching English in Europe, or starting a new job in South America, finding meaningful friendships can take effort. The good news? It’s possible—and often easier than you think—to build a community abroad.
Table of Contents
- 15 Ways To Make Friends While Traveling or Living Abroad
- 1. Attend a Local Church or Religious Service
- 2. Join Clubs, Social Groups, or Hobby Circles
- 3. Connect Through Fitness: Join a Local Gym or Fitness Class
- 4. Join Expat or National Clubs
- 5. Volunteer for a Local Charity or NGO
- 6. Explore Meetup and Event Platforms
- 7. Stay in Hostels or Join Co-Living Spaces
- 8. Take Language Classes
- 9. Get Online: Use Social Media and Forums
- 10. Sign Up for a Class or Workshop
- 11. Say Yes (Even When It Feels Awkward)
- 12. Start Something Yourself
- 13. Be a Regular Somewhere
- 14. Talk to Strangers (Yes, Really)
- 15. Travel Slowly
- Final Thoughts: Friendship Takes Openness
- Related Questions
15 Ways To Make Friends While Traveling or Living Abroad
Living or traveling abroad doesn’t have to be a lonely experience—there are many meaningful ways to connect and build friendships along the way. Whether you’re settling into a new country or just passing through, it’s possible to find a sense of community.
From joining local clubs and attending cultural events to connecting with fellow travelers or volunteering for a cause, the opportunities to meet new people are all around you. With a little effort and an open mind, your time abroad can be filled with genuine connections and lasting friendships.
Here’s how to meet new people, connect with locals and fellow travelers, and build lasting friendships wherever you go.
1. Attend a Local Church or Religious Service
If you’re religious (or even open to exploring), attending a local church, mosque, synagogue, or temple can be one of the best ways to meet people.
Religious communities often welcome newcomers warmly, and if you’re in a country where your religion is widely practiced, you already have a built-in common ground. Many churches, especially those in larger cities or tourist areas, offer international or expat-friendly services, providing an opportunity to meet other travelers or residents.
Bonus tip: Look for community events or volunteer opportunities hosted by religious organizations—these often attract both locals and expats looking to give back.
2. Join Clubs, Social Groups, or Hobby Circles
Everywhere you go, there’s a network of people doing something you’re interested in. It could be a book club, yoga class, hiking group, or even a weekly trivia night. Clubs are fantastic for forming consistent, low-pressure friendships that build over time.
Ideas to explore:
- Language exchange groups (great for learning and meeting locals)
- Cooking classes
- Dance or music groups
- Photography walks
- Sports leagues (soccer, volleyball, etc.)
These activities provide regular interaction and shared experiences, which are essential for forming strong friendships.
3. Connect Through Fitness: Join a Local Gym or Fitness Class
A gym isn’t just for getting in shape—it can be a social hub. Regulars at local gyms or yoga studios often form tight-knit communities. Even casual conversations after class can evolve into friendships.
Other options: Martial arts studios, spin classes, CrossFit boxes, or even public park workout groups. Don’t be afraid to strike up a chat with someone. Chances are, they’re just as open to meeting new people.
4. Join Expat or National Clubs
In many cities, there are organized communities specifically for expats or people from a particular country. American Clubs, British Societies, Canadian Chambers of Commerce, and other national groups can provide a familiar cultural base.
These organizations often host:
- Networking events
- Cultural celebrations
- Family-friendly meetups
- Business mixers
They can be invaluable if you’re feeling homesick and want to connect with others who are going through similar experiences.
5. Volunteer for a Local Charity or NGO
Volunteering is a powerful way to give back to your host community and connect with like-minded individuals. You might find yourself organizing food drives, teaching, helping at an animal shelter, or working with environmental groups.
Why it works:
- You’re around people who share your values
- You engage in meaningful work together
- You gain a deeper understanding of the local culture
Additionally, many NGOs attract both local and international volunteers, which means you have a diverse social circle.
6. Explore Meetup and Event Platforms
Technology can be your best friend when it comes to making new friends abroad. Platforms like Meetup, Eventbrite, Couchsurfing Events, and Facebook Events list tons of activities and gatherings.
Look out for:
- Language exchanges
- Cooking nights
- Board game cafes
- Movie clubs
- Day trips and hikes
Attending a public event can feel awkward at first, but remember: everyone there is probably open to meeting new people as well. Just say hello.
7. Stay in Hostels or Join Co-Living Spaces
If you’re traveling or have just arrived in a new city, staying in a hostel is one of the easiest ways to make instant friends. Common areas, group activities, and city tours create natural opportunities for bonding.
If you’re living abroad for an extended period, co-living spaces (shared housing designed for travelers and remote workers) offer a built-in community.
Pro tip: Opt for places that host group dinners, coworking sessions, or regular events. You’ll naturally meet people in a relaxed, social setting.
8. Take Language Classes
If you’re living in a country where you don’t speak the language, language school is a win-win. You learn a valuable skill, and you meet other people in the same boat.
Language classes often involve group activities, outings, and social mixers. Your classmates might be other expats, immigrants, or travelers looking for a connection.
Side bonus: Learning the language makes it easier to make friends with locals.
9. Get Online: Use Social Media and Forums
Don’t underestimate online platforms. Join Facebook groups for expats in your city, follow local influencers, or look up forums like Reddit or Internations.
Search for:
- “Expats in [City]”
- “[City] digital nomads”
- “[City] travel buddies”
People often post about meetups, room shares, job opportunities, and social events. It’s a fast track to finding your tribe.
10. Sign Up for a Class or Workshop
Learning something new is a great way to make friends. Whether it’s salsa dancing, painting, scuba diving, or coding, classes create a shared learning environment that fosters connection.
Think about:
- Cooking classes in Italy
- Surf lessons in Bali
- Tango workshops in Argentina
Even a short weekend workshop can lead to long-lasting friendships if you vibe with the right people.
11. Say Yes (Even When It Feels Awkward)
Making friends often means stepping out of your comfort zone. Accept invitations, even if they’re outside your usual interests. Go to the barbecue, the rooftop party, the cultural festival.
Many friendships start because someone took a chance on an invitation. You never know who you’ll meet.
12. Start Something Yourself
Can’t find a group that fits your interests? Start one! Create a book club, host a potluck dinner, or organize a movie night. People love being invited to something fun.
Use platforms like Facebook, Meetup, or even a group text with fellow expats. You might be surprised how quickly others respond.
13. Be a Regular Somewhere
Consistency breeds connection. Become a regular at a coffee shop, market, or neighborhood bar. When staff and other patrons start to recognize you, conversations naturally follow.
This also helps you feel grounded in your new environment.
14. Talk to Strangers (Yes, Really)
So many people miss out on connections because they wait for others to make the first move. Whether it’s someone sitting next to you at a cafe or a fellow traveler on a bus, a simple “Hey, where are you from?” can be the start of something great.
Conversation starters:
- “Is this your first time here?”
- “Know any good local spots?”
- “What brings you to [City]?”
Even if the conversation doesn’t turn into a friendship, it’s good social practice.
15. Travel Slowly
Fast travel is fun, but slow travel builds friendships. When you spend more time in one place, you naturally start seeing the same faces and routines.
Whether you’re in a small town or a big city, staying in one area longer gives you the time to deepen connections instead of just making acquaintances.
Final Thoughts: Friendship Takes Openness
Making friends abroad isn’t always instant, but it gets easier the more you practice being open, curious, and intentional. Not every conversation will turn into a lifelong bond, and that’s okay. You’re planting seeds. Some will grow quickly, others over time.
Remember: you’re not alone in feeling alone. Many other travelers and expats are looking for a connection too. Be proactive. Be kind. Be brave enough to say hello.
Wherever you go, the world is full of people who could be your next great friend.
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What Are the Best Ways to Build Meaningful Friendships Abroad?
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